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BC Transit is preparing to launch a new electronic collection system and it is expected to be implemented in Kelowna in late 2023.
Umo will be introduced across the province and will allow transit users to pay their fare using a mobile app, reloadable smart cards as well as credit and debit cards and cash, say city staff in a report.
The new patent option was announced in late January 2022 and kicked off in Victoria in the fall.
On Monday, Kelowna council will be presented with information on a few specific policy changes that will make way for the new fare collection in the Kelowna Regional Transit System.
To facilitate the new system, BC Transit requires local governments to approve the policy updates.
Two of those policies include refunds and fare product expiration. Refunds will be available for unused fare products and pre-purchased packs of 10 rides (formally tickets) will expire after one year. Kelowna council is expected to receive those details for information only.
Two new policies will require approval from council. This includes introducing a 30-day pass and removing the calendar-based monthly passes. The report says these new passes could be purchased at any time during the month and be valid for 30 days.
The second policy change will see transfers restricted to use on the next connecting bus within 90 minutes of the original fare payment. Currently, transfers can be used without restriction to the number of transfers made in an hour and half.
BC Transit says the new system will introduce a universal payment system for transit system across the province.
Fortunately, cash will continue to be accepted for riders that choose or need to use it.
Kelowna City Council will review the matter on Monday at 1:30 pm.
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